In which patient population is mitral valve prolapse most commonly found?

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is most commonly found in young women aged 15-35 due to a combination of anatomical and physiological factors. This demographic often experiences the condition because of connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, that can affect the structure of the mitral valve. Additionally, hormonal influences, which can vary throughout different life stages especially during puberty and early adulthood, may also contribute to the prevalence of MVP in this age group.

Epidemiological studies have shown that MVP occurs more frequently in women compared to men, particularly within the specified age range. The condition is typically asymptomatic in this population, but it can lead to complications such as arrhythmias or mitral regurgitation in some cases. Recognizing this demographic prevalence is important for clinicians when assessing patients who present with symptoms suggestive of mitral valve issues.